So far, I’ve really been enjoying the TX9. The picture quality is great, but I already expected that considering the quality of the my previous camera, the TX1. What really surprised me though was the quality of the AVCHD video. It is buttery smooth and sharp!

The 2 features that I was really excited about, background defocus and HDR mode were slightly disappointing. The background defocus does an okay job of simulating an SLR’s shallow depth of field, but depending on the subject and the situation, it sometimes defocuses things that shouldn’t be out of focus. The HDR mode does a decent job of increasing the dynamic range. I compared it to some of the other modes (which might not be the best idea considering the sensor already does a great job of capturing a range of highlights and shadows) and could not tell much difference. Maybe Sony should have options with the HDR mode that include intensity of the HDR effect as well as a setting to change the number of pictures it takes using different exposures. Right now it only takes two photos and combines them. Maybe if they combined at least 3+ differently exposed photos, the HDR effect might be more obvious.

The 3D feature works well. I don’t have a 3D TV yet, but the in-camera effect does what I expected…it gives multiple perspectives.

I still need to play with the camera more, I’ve only had it a day as of writing this. I will be getting the WX5 soon, so I can compare the two.

(8/25/2010): Just got the TX9 in the mail today. I am currently working on the video. I will keep you posted once I am done editing.

(8/20/2010): I’m still waiting for the camera to arrive at my doorstep. I am very excited to get my hands on the Sony DSC-TX9. I also ordered a WX5 and will be doing a review of that as well.